GUWAHATI: A video circulating on social media showing two individuals casting votes in favor of a BJP candidate on April 26 at Polling Station No. 11, 240 NO. Nayadhar L.P. School (Right) of 125 Patharkandi, Karimganj, has sparked controversy.
However, upon receiving the complaint, the matter was promptly addressed during scrutiny on April 27 at 11 AM in the presence of the General Observer and candidates/election agents.
During the scrutiny, the polling team, along with the Presiding Officer, Nazrul Haque Tapadar, Librarian of Taltala High School, clarified that the video was captured during a mock poll.
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It was further explained that the Close Result Clear (CRC) process was conducted before the commencement of the actual polling, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the voting process.
Additionally, statements from individuals visible in the shared video, including Abdul Sahid, son of Ajimuddin, from Chenjur, who serves as the polling agent of Abdul Hameed, an independent candidate, corroborated the explanation provided by the polling officials.
According to the established procedure, polling agents are permitted to cast a few test votes in favor of their respective candidates during the mock poll phase.
Further investigation into the matter is ongoing, with polling officials being issued show-cause notices to provide additional clarity on the situation.
As of now, the allegations of voter fraud have been dismissed as misleading, with the electoral process deemed to have been conducted in accordance with established protocols.
However, it is further clarified that the said incidence during the mock poll was a gross violation of ECI instructions on the prohibition of carrying mobile phones inside the polling station.
For violation of ECI instructions, disciplinary action has already been taken against the Presiding Officer and lawful action will also be taken against the polling agent who violated the instruction of not carrying the mobile phone inside the polling station.
